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Savannah Assault Lawyers

Defending Simple & Aggravated Assault Charges in Chatham County

If you or a loved one has been charged with assault, retaining the right criminal defense lawyer can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. You could lose your freedom for years if you are not professionally defended by a seasoned trial lawyer.

At Schneider Lerch, LLC, we have extensive experience developing powerful and compelling defense strategies and engaging in meaningful and productive negotiations with prosecutors. One of our partners, Cris Schneider, is a former prosecutor himself and understands the process of working with the other side to seek a reduced charge or sentence when this is the most favorable option for the accused.

Are you facing an assault charge in Georgia? Call Schneider Lerch, LLC today at (912) 417-5008 or contact us online to get started on your case!

What Is the Difference Between Simple Assault and Aggravated Assault in Georgia?

Simple assault is a misdemeanor carrying penalties of up to 12 months in jail and $1,000 in fines upon conviction. You could be charged with simple assault if you injured someone, attempted to injure someone, or made someone fear immediate violent injury.

Aggravated assault is a far more serious felony offense that is charged when the alleged perpetrator assaulted someone with the intent to murder, rob, or rape. Aggravated assault can also be any form of assault involving the use of a deadly weapon. If convicted of aggravated assault, you could be facing up to 20 years in prison and extensive fines.

What Factors Will a Judge Consider in an Assault Case?

The judge has leeway in sentencing and will look at several factors when making a decision.

Judges will consider:

Your criminal record and whether you have prior convictions
The extent of the victim’s injuries
Whether a weapon was used in the assault
Whether the assault was considered a "hate crime"
Whether the assault was considered a "gang crime"
The sentencing guidelines in the State of Georgia
Mandatory minimum sentences that do not allow for the judge's discretion

Georgia has some of the toughest sentencing guidelines of any state. For several crimes – including an aggravated assault in a rape case – the state does not allow for parole eligibility or time off for good behavior. 100% of the sentence must be served. This places a defendant in a position of extreme danger if accused of aggravated assault. The Seven Deadly Sins Act abolished parole for seven violent felonies including rape.

What Should I Do If I Am Charged With Assault?

If you have been accused of committing assault, it is important that you take appropriate action to protect yourself.

We recommend that you:

Exercise your right to remain silent
Be respectful to law enforcement and do not resist, fight, or argue, as that could result in added charges for resisting
Do not engage in conversations with any "friendly" officer who appears to want to help you
Once you have been booked and are allowed to make a call, get in touch with a Savannah assault defense lawyer you can trust
Never agree to any questioning without your lawyer physically present to advise and protect you.

What Defenses Are Available for an Assault Charge?

Facing an assault charge can be daunting, but several defenses can be utilized to challenge the accusations. The specific circumstances of each case will influence which defense is most appropriate.

Self-Defense: One of the most common defenses against an assault charge is self-defense. This argument is valid when the defendant can demonstrate that they believed they were in imminent danger of bodily harm and used reasonable force to protect themselves. The key factors are the immediacy of the threat and the proportionality of the response.
Defense of Others: Similar to self-defense, this defense applies when the accused was protecting someone else from imminent harm. The defendant must show that the person they were defending was under immediate threat and that the force used was necessary and proportionate to the threat.
Defense of Property: This defense can be invoked if the defendant was using force to protect their property from being unlawfully taken or damaged. The force must be reasonable and not excessive given the situation.
Mistaken Identity: If there is a possibility that the defendant was not the person who committed the assault, this defense can be used. Mistaken identity can arise from unreliable eyewitness testimony or other factors that lead to confusion about who was responsible.

Each of these defenses requires a thorough understanding of the specific facts of the case and effective legal representation to ensure the best possible outcome.

What Qualifies As a Deadly Weapon?

When charged with aggravated assault for using a deadly weapon, you may be shocked to find out a deadly weapon can be almost anything – including hands and feet. If it is alleged that you used any item in an assault – whether it was a gun, knife, beer bottle, bat, or club – you will be most likely be facing charges of aggravated assault.

Contact Schneider Lerch, LLC by calling (912) 417-5008 today for a confidential consultation!

⚖️ Confident & Results-Focused

Proven Results. Thousands of Times Over.

Our top priority is to devise customized legal strategies that are tailored to the unique legal needs of our clients, no matter how simple or complicated their situations, might be.

Dismissed State Court: Failure to Maintain Lane
Dismissed Superior Court: Aggravated Assault
Dismissed Municipal Court: Battery - Domestic Violence
Reduced to City Ordinance Municipal Court: Loitering & Prowling
Dismissed Municipal Court: Public Drunkenness
Dismissed Municipal Court: Stop Sign Violation

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Choose a Team You Can Trust We Are Ready to Help

At Schneider Lerch, LLC, you have an entire legal team on your side when dealing with serious criminal matters. We are ready to help you obtain the best possible outcome in your case.

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Commonly Asked Questions

How can a Savannah assault lawyer help me if I am charged with aggravated assault?

A Savannah assault lawyer can analyze the details of your case, identify potential defenses, and develop a strategic plan tailored to your situation. With their understanding of local laws and court procedures, they can negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or alternative sentencing options. Additionally, having a skilled attorney by your side can help ensure that your rights are protected throughout the legal process.

Can assault charges be expunged from my record?

In Georgia, expunging or restricting assault charges from your record is possible under certain conditions. If your case was dismissed, you were acquitted, or completed a diversion program, you might be eligible for expungement. This process can remove barriers to employment and other opportunities that a criminal record might present. An experienced criminal defense lawyer can help you understand your eligibility and guide you through the expungement process.

How can a criminal defense lawyer help reduce my assault charges?

Experienced attorneys, like those at Schneider Lerch, LLC, can navigate the complexities of the legal system, negotiate with prosecutors, and potentially lower charges or penalties. They assess the details of your case, challenge evidence, and develop a strong defense strategy tailored to your situation. With a lawyer's guidance, you may be able to secure a plea deal, reduced sentence, or even a case dismissal.

What should I do immediately after being charged with aggravated assault?

If you are charged with aggravated assault, it is essential to take immediate action to protect your rights. First, exercise your right to remain silent and avoid discussing the details of your case with law enforcement or anyone else. Be respectful and compliant during any interaction with police to prevent additional charges. Once you are able, contact a Savannah assault lawyer who can guide you through the legal process. They will help you understand the charges against you, outline your options, and work on building a strong defense to challenge the allegations.

What defenses can be used against aggravated assault charges in Georgia?

There are several defenses that can be employed against aggravated assault charges in Georgia. One common defense is self-defense, which can be argued if you believed you were in imminent danger and used reasonable force to protect yourself. Another possible defense is defense of others, applicable when you were protecting someone else from harm. Additionally, mistaken identity can be a valid defense if there is doubt about your involvement in the incident. Each case is unique, and a skilled attorney can help determine the most effective defense strategy based on the specific circumstances surrounding your charge.

Results Come With the Right Experience

Reasons to Hire Schneider Lerch, LLC

Misdemeanor & Felony Charges
No matter high how the stakes may be, there is nothing that our defense attorneys cannot handle.
Former Prosecutor
Working as a prosecutor gave Attorney Schneider valuable insight into how to develop and prosecute cases.
Trial Attorneys
Our seasoned attorneys have handled thousands of trials. Their knowledge and experience have proven to be successful in the courtroom.
Over 40 Years of Combined Experience
With many years of dedicated criminal law experience, our attorneys know the main concerns many people have when they're in this situation.

We're Ready to Fight For You

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At Schneider Lerch, LLC, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.

“I anticipated my case to be almost impossible.”
He definitely met my expectations, above and beyond. So thankful to have had your help!

Past Client
“True Advocate for Their Clients”
“Cris's expertise in criminal defense law was evident in the way they skillfully navigated the legal system, providing strategic guidance and support every step of the way. Thanks to their exceptional work, I was able to avoid the fine and the points being ”

Byron A.
“If you need an attorney, Courtney is your girl! She’s great!”
Courtney really helped me out with my speeding ticket! She’s amazing, if you need an attorney call her! I would give her 10 stars if I could.

Lindsay
“Courtney is an excellent attorney! ”
“Courtney is an excellent attorney! ”

Sean
“Was blessed to have you represent me”
God put you in my life to help me through a dark time. I was blessed to have you represent me. You inspire me to become a lawyer and help others."

Past Client
“Without Courtney I May Have Lost Everything!”
“Throughout the process she communicated, received and answered my calls and questions promptly, and made me feel like a person, not a case number.”

Van W.
“Everyone was extremely friendly, supportive and helpful”
I didn't have any doubts or concerns that Schneider Lerch, LLC couldn't help me. Thank you from the bottom of my heart! I appreciate all the hard work!

Past Client
“Goes Above and Beyond for You”
“Thanks to Cris's hard work and dedication, along with his team's support, the charges against me were ultimately dropped. They fought tirelessly on my behalf, and I am so grateful for everything they did for me.”

Ethan A.

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